Molecular ideas about special glia that help nerves work
Official title: Molecular mechanisms underlying motor exit point glia function
Funded at Florida Atlantic University · NIH-11444696 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A researcher will study special glial cells that touch both the brain/spinal cord and nerves elsewhere, to understand how they help nerve fibers stay healthy and properly connected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Florida Atlantic University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boca Raton, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $448,664 |
| NIH project number | 1R15NS142927-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11444696 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with interest in nervous system biology and related research opportunities, typically comprising graduate students or postdoctoral researchers with relevant background.
✕Less likely to help
The grant does not involve direct patient enrollment at this stage; it uses model organisms and laboratory studies.
What this research studies
This project focuses on motor exit point glia that originate in the spinal cord and extend into the peripheral nervous system. Using a CRISPR-based approach in a zebrafish model (Brachydanio rerio), the team will examine how these glia influence myelination and the movement of other glial cells at transition zones. By testing how glial cells operate at the CNS-PNS boundary, the study aims to reveal mechanisms that keep nerve signals fast and accurate. The findings could shed light on how nervous system boundaries are maintained during development and potentially inform strategies for nerve repair. Overall, the work seeks to connect glial behavior with proper nerve function across the central and peripheral nervous systems.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could improve understanding of nerve insulation and signaling, potentially guiding future therapies for nervous system disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work with MEP glia and transition-zone glia has shown these cells influence glial migration and myelination, supporting the plausibility of further discoveries.
Where this research is happening
-
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fontenas, Laura — Florida Atlantic University
- Study coordinator: Fontenas, Laura
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.